The United States is facing a widespread flu outbreak in 2013 which means everyone should take extra precautions to stay healthy and to avoid catching it. In confined airplanes, it can be even easier for people to catch and pass along illnesses. There are certain precautions that travelers should take to avoid the flu and other illnesses.

If you're planning on flying during flu season, you might want to suck it up and get that flu shot. The flu shot is available for free or for a low cost at your private doctor's office or even at public pharmacies like Duane Reade, Rite Aid, CVS and more. 

Along with getting the flu shot, there are certain things that you should take with you on the plane the prevent the spread of illness.

Products like airborne and Emergen-C strengthen your immunity so that you can fight a possible illness and it helps to relieve symptoms that you might already have. You may also want to have Ibuprofen on you to lower a fever and relieve body and head aches.

Bring your own travel pillow and blanket if you are taking a long flight. It is best to stay on the safe side and use your own products rather than the pre-used airline pillows or blankets. A blanket will also help if you are sick and have the chills.

Make sure to bring tissues and antibacterial wipes on board as well. Tissues are necessary to wipe your nose when it is runny or to cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing. Antibacterial wipes are good to have to wipe things down like plane bathroom faucets, the tray table, arm rests and other things you may touch.

Another way to keep your hands clean is by using hand sanitizer. Use hand sanitizer as your soap to go. When you carry it around, you can use it after touching things like check-in screens, elevator buttons, escalator handrails, money, ATM's and other germy things you may encounter in the airport or on a plane.

Stay safe, stay healthy and have a nice flu-free flight!